Signs of hope in US diocese

Signs of hope in US diocese

When Father Gerard Francik recently interviewed a 19-year-old who
was thinking about becoming a priest, the Baltimore archdiocesan
vocations director asked him to talk about his prayer life.

The former high school footballer told Father Francik how he
faithfully makes a holy hour in front of the Blessed Sacrament,
attends Mass, prays the rosary and observes the liturgy of the
hours - daily.

That young man is typical of those who are stepping forward to
become priests these days, according to Father Francik. Many are
still in their teens, and show unbridled enthusiasm for living out
their religious convictions.

The vocations director said there are more young men inquiring
about becoming priests than in previous years. 'We have 16-
and 17- year-olds just beating down the door,' he said.
'It gives me encouragement to see so many young people on
fire for their faith. It gives us hope for the future.'

Last year's incoming seminarian class at 13 was the largest in
nearly two decades with the 2008 class also due to hit double
digits.

Although parishes and schools have become more proactive there
are still some that need to do more. 'Some of our parishes
have three or four guys who are in the seminary and many have
zero,' he said, noting that there are about 20 parishes
represented among the men currently preparing for the
priesthood.

If every parish could encourage just one man to consider the
priesthood, more than 150 new priests might be ordained in the next
several years.

'The pastor really sets the tone,' with personal
invitations critical. 'If you talk about vocations and pray
for vocations, it makes a difference.' (Catholic News Service)